Tuesdays with Merton Podcast Ryan Bell - Pilgrims in a Polarized Church: Thomas Merton and Raymond Hunthausen
Sep 10, 2025
Ryan Bell, a recent University of Denver graduate and Benedictine oblate, dives into the dynamic influence of Thomas Merton on Archbishop Raymond Hunthausen. He explores Hunthausen's passionate protests against nuclear arms, spurred by Merton's writings on peace and justice. The discussion touches on the contrasting views of internal fear fueling war and the transformative impact of Vatican II. Bell reflects on Hunthausen's dual role as a public figure and a monk, highlighting the significance of dialogue in overcoming polarization within the Church.
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Hiroshima Moment That Shaped a Bishop
- Raymond Hunthausen fled to the woods and wept when he heard of Hiroshima while at seminary in 1945.
- That moment imprinted a lifelong horror of nuclear weapons that shaped his ministry.
Merton As Muse For Public Conscience
- Thomas Merton's writings gave Hunthausen the language and courage to oppose nuclear arms publicly.
- Merton served as a contemplative template that animated Hunthausen's activism despite never meeting him.
From Strict Seminary To Vatican II Change
- Hunthausen moved quickly from strict seminary discipline to embracing Vatican II reforms after attending the council.
- He shed ornate trappings and adopted a simpler pastoral style as bishop and later as archbishop.
